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Rock Pigeon Columba livia |
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Rock Pigeons (doves) originated in the Eastern Hemisphere. Some of these pigeons were eventually domesticated by humans. Escaped domestic and racing/homing pigeons established populations in cities and towns. They were introduced to North America in the 1600's by Northern Europeans who settled in Nova Scotia, Canada. The Rock Pigeon is called the feathered rat by some. Although, the pigeon is highly prized for its speed and ability to return home by others. Large non-migratory populations of the pigeon are found in downtown Bakersfield, especially near Union and California Avenues. Rock Pigeons also may be found in significant numbers near barns and stables throughout the county. Adults: Length 28-34 cm. Wingspan: 63-70 cm. Weight: 230-370g. chunky Color: Highly variable plumage (some can be entirely chestnut, white, black) typical pigeon has grayish head, iridescent green and purple on neck and throat, light gray back and belly, pale gray wings with two dark wing bars, dark gray primaries, white rump patch, and medium squared light gray tail with black terminal band, dark gray bill, and pink legs |
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Breeding: 4-5 broods per year, 1-2 white eggs Nesting: loose saucer of leaves, stems, roots, with no lining. Built on building ledges, under eaves, under bridges, in traffic lights, on cliffs Incubation: 16-19 days Fledging: 25-26 days Voice: k't'coo Lifespan: 3-4 years in the wild; up to 30 in captivity Flight Speed: 28 to 82 mph record Diet: Mostly seeds, some greens, some insects, fast food Habits: small to large communal roosts, non-migratory Habitat: Urban, rural, always around human edifices Range: Occurs from southern British Columba to Newfoundland south throughout continent to Gulf Coast and Central America. Native to the Eastern Hemisphere and widely introduced around the world. Doves are unique from other birds as they drink by sucking, so they don't have to tilt their heads back to swallow. Feral pigeons are pests and helpers in the urban environment. Hundreds of pigeons damage human structures with their waste each year, yet they clean the streets of tons of bread, popcorn, and other human leftovers. Pigeons provide many city dwellers with the companionship of nature in an unnatural world. They are not known to compete with native species as their niche is entirely dependant upon humans. Rock pigeons may pass histoplasmosis and other diseases through their feces to other birds and humans. |
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Kern Introduced Species: plant list with a short introduction to exotic species Kern Naturalized Animal Checklist Bullfrog Virginia Opossum Fox Squirrel ROCK PIGEON Spotted Dove Ringed Turtle Dove Eurasian Collared Dove Rose-ringed Parakeet European Starling House Sparrow Hodgepodge of introduced Species |
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Nature Ali Publications - keeping you informed about the past, present, and future of the natural environment in Kern County. The focus of Nature Ali Publications is the natural history of Kern County and surrounding regions in California. Thanks for visiting. Photographs and text copyrighted to Nature Ali and may not be reproduced without express written permission. |
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